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What are essential organic substances needed to release energy from food?

  1. Vitamins

  2. Minerals

  3. Fatty acids

  4. Amino acids

The correct answer is: Vitamins

The correct answer highlights the importance of vitamins as essential organic substances required for the body to effectively release energy from food. Vitamins serve as coenzymes or cofactors in various metabolic pathways, enabling the body to convert carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into usable energy. Their presence is crucial for energy metabolism, as they help facilitate enzymatic reactions that break down food components. For example, B vitamins, such as thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), and niacin (B3), are particularly vital for the energy-producing processes within the mitochondria of cells. These vitamins support the transformation of macronutrients into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy currency of the cell. Understanding the role of vitamins can help in recognizing the significance of maintaining a balanced diet that includes adequate vitamin intake to support metabolic functions.